Question

Read this passage, and think about the argument it presents.

This winter, the weather has been much less fierce. Unlike past years, there have been no major snowstorms or blizzards to bury people under several feet of snow. Temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 35 miles an hour or less. Other parts of the country have not been as fortunate, of course, and several states have had no choice but to declare a state of emergency. We are fortunate to have had a far more enjoyable season than those on the East Coast and in the Midwest. I have appreciated it, even though it has meant less time off work for nasty weather.

What sentence from the passage provides evidence to support the claim made in the first sentence?

“We are fortunate to have had a far more enjoyable season than those on the East Coast and in the Midwest."

“The weather this winter has been unusually mild, much to everyone’s relief.”

“Temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 35 miles an hour or less.”

“I have appreciated it, even though it has meant less time off work for nasty weather.”

Answer 1

“Temperatures have generally stayed above zero, and even the wind has cooperated by keeping to a respectable 35 miles an hour or less.”

This gives specific evidence (milder temperatures and moderate wind) supporting the claim that the winter was less fierce.